Chris Meyer attempts to unravel the mysteries of MIDI's various operating modes, and dispels the myth that some recent instruments have new ones built into them.

Who's Where, What's What

Been puzzled by references to just intoned or even tempered scales, or wondered exactly what the DX7II's "microtonality" is all about? Robert Rich has the answers.

Continuing the tradition that began with their 144 Portastudio, Tascam have created a combined package of mixer and 8-track recorder - the 388 Studio 8 - whose compact dimensions belie its true versatility. Dave Lockwood assesses its performance.

Simmons 800 Series electronic drums

Simmons’ budget range of new electronic drums

Todd AO Studios

Simon Braund visits New York's busiest movie post-production facility

with The Cocteau Twins

Few of today's bands can confidently claim to have a sound that is unique, but Scotland's Cocteau Twins are one such outfit, and Dan Goldstein has been talking to them about how that sound is achieved.

And you thought PCM was a medical complaint...

MIDI Digital Keyboard Recorder

There are still more computer-shy musicians around than many would have you believe, so for them, this dedicated MIDI sequencer could be just the ticket. Trish McGrath investigates.

One of the consequences of MIDI recording is the loss of musical performance. In the first of a short series, Ollie Crooke and Simon Thomas look at the performance applications of MIDI controllers.

It's the latest. It's the greatest. It's the mostest. Oops

Rhythmcheck

A digital drum machine with pre-set rhythms. Review by Martin Moody

Hints, Tips & News From The World Of Music Software

More hints, tips and update news from the world of music software.

And following on from that, David Ellis takes an in-depth look at how the MIDI system works, and the sort of potential it encompasses.

Equalisation

Equalisation in the studio is a major aspect of most recording work. We take you through the basics and give a guide to some of the better buys.

Part 2 completes this unique project unit with details of the LED Pitch Ratio Display

The Wool Hall

If you earn a fortune in royalties from record sales and you want your own recording studio, what do you do? If you're Tears For Fears, you build The Wool Hall. Paul Tingen reports.

how Green is my new band and album

sequencer for the PC

For many people, the definitive sequencing software for the PC has yet to be written. Could this be it?

After several weeks of collating your replies, an explanation of the results of this revealing survey.

Peter Fitzpatrick gets to grips with Casio's flagship synth - the VZ-1

Expert tips on fine-tuning your effects in exact time with your BPMs.

A string arrangement can make or break a song — Ian Gardiner digs up a few basic rules for right-on arranging.

XRI Systems

This low-cost unit from XRI brings the power of true timecode synchronisation to the masses. Paul Ireson checks it out.